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5 Benefits Of Oats That May Surprise You

The humble oat is one of the healthiest grains on earth. Not only are they gluten-free, but they are also a fantastic source of important vitamins, minerals, fibre and antioxidants.

We know that oats are great for aiding weight loss, as many health food bloggers and nutritionists swear by them, but did you know about these other benefits of oats?

1. Oats Help You Sleep Well

Traditionally seen as a breakfast food, but our neighbours over in Scotland have a different idea. They recommend a bowl of porridge before bed to help you feel nice and full and sleepy. But, there’s also a science behind eating porridge at bedtime1. Oats contain melatonin, vitamin B6, and complex carbs, and the combination of these three boosts your tryptophan and serotonin levels, which all factor in getting a good night’s sleep.

2. Oats Help Reduce Blood Pressure

Many factors contribute to high levels of blood pressure, including stress, lack of exercise and a poor diet. However, oats have been seen to help in the reduction of high blood pressure2. A diet with plenty of whole-grains is advised for those who suffer from high blood pressure. Of course, always speak to your GP if you are concerned about blood pressure levels.

3. Oats Help Soothe Your Skin

You don’t have to eat oats to gain their benefits! They’re actually really good when applied to the skin! Especially for dry, itchy, irritated skin. The starchiness of oats creates a barrier that allows the skin to hold its moisture, while the rougher fibrous husk of the oat acts as a gentle exfoliant. That’s why many homemade facial mask or skincare products use oats.

4. Oats Help Balance Your Blood Sugar

Ever had a sugar crash after a sugary snack or a massive meal? Well, this doesn’t happen with oats. Because they’re so high in fibre, the sugar in oats is released at a much slower rate than other foods, so it doesn’t hit your bloodstream as quickly3. Meaning you won’t get that ‘high’ followed by a slump a half hour later. You’ll get a steady supply of energy instead.

5. Oats Help Fight Infection & Protect Your Immune System

Oats contain a fibre called beta-glucan, which helps your white blood cells travel to the point of threat, or infection, at a quicker speed4. To help eliminate the bacteria found.

Do you know of any other benefits of oats? Let us know in the comments!

This article has been sponsored by the makers of AVEENO® Baby. Specially formulated with colloidal (finely ground) oatmeal, the AVEENO® Baby Range nourishes, soothes and protects a baby’s sensitive skin. The Baby range is completely unscented and has been Paediatrician tested. Not only that but AVEENO® Baby understand that a baby’s skin is unique and naturally more delicate than adult’s skin, so they take the measures to ensure their products are specially formulated to care for baby’s skin

About the Author

Formerly the editor of eumom.ie, Mairéad Cahalan is a creator of content, a lover of music, red wine and coffee, and a part-time wedding singer! Find her on Twitter, Instagram, Soundcloud and LinkedIn.